University of Minnesota to hold system-wide summit on improving campus climates for GLBT people

Contacts: Angie Nichols, GLBT Services-UMD (218) 726-7300, anichols@d.umn.edu
Patty Mattern, University News Service, (612) 624-2801

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (09/18/2008) — The University of Minnesota Systemwide Standing Commission on GLBT Concerns will host the first Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Ally Systemwide Summit Friday and Saturday, Sept. 26 and 27 on the Duluth campus. The two-day summit will bring together students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members representing every campus in the University of Minnesota system (Crookston, Duluth, Morris, Rochester, Twin Cities) who are committed to improving campus climate for GLBT communities.

Those attending will share ways to create inclusive environments on campuses. The sessions will focus on building toward a long-term strategic plan to improve the climate for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Allies.

The summit is free and open to all seeking to improve GLBTA campus climate. Some meals and accommodations will be provided, but space is limited and advanced registration is requested. Attendees from visiting University of Minnesota campuses may request support for transportation and lodging. For more information and registration, see http://www.glbta.umn.edu/summit.

“This summit represents a historic occasion as this will be the first time since the commission began in 2004 that everyone from all U of M campuses who have been working to improve GLBTA campus climate will be in the same room together,” said Michael Moore, past co-chair of the GLBT Systemwide Commission. “And we’re thrilled to be able to meet with community members to share together our vision of how the university can be a better place for its GLBTA members and the steps we need to take to get there.”

The goals of the summit are:
• Showcasing University of Minnesota programs and increase networking and information sharing for GLBTA communities systemwide;
• Strengthening reciprocal relationships with off-campus communities;
• Committing to ending racism and building more inclusive movements and communities; and
• Gathering input and begin developing a strategic plan for improving GLBTA campus climate systemwide.
Following an opening reception on the afternoon of Sept. 26, Nancy “Rusty” Barceló, vice president and vice provost for equity and diversity, will give a keynote speech.

A centerpiece of the summit will be an opportunity for all attendees to participate in anti-racism training to advance an affirming University of Minnesota community reflective of and informed by its true diversity, and the intersections of privilege, power and identity.
Along with the work sessions, there will also be entertainment, tours and relaxing activities during the summit.